Single ketamine infusion with behavioral therapy improves outcomes in cocaine‐dependent patients
The Brown University Psychopharmacology Update October 1, 2019 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.1002/pu.30484
Summary
A five-week trial with 55 participants showed that a single infusion of ketamine combined with mindfulness-based psychotherapy was more effective than midazolam with therapy in reducing cravings and maintaining abstinence in individuals with cocaine dependence. Participants receiving ketamine were 53% less likely to drop out of treatment or use cocaine compared to those who received midazolam.
Study at a glance
| Design | randomized controlled trial |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 55 |
| Population | individuals with cocaine dependence |
| Key finding | Participants receiving ketamine were 53% less likely to drop out of treatment or use cocaine compared to the midazolam group. |
Abstract
A five‐week trial involving 55 participants has concluded that a single infusion of ketamine in combination with a course of mindfulness‐based psychotherapy was more effective than midazolam with therapy in limiting craving and maintaining abstinence among individuals with cocaine dependence. The researchers found that participants receiving ketamine were 53% less likely to drop out of treatment or use cocaine in comparison with the midazolam group.